Tuesday, November 19, 2013

1966 Shelby GT350

While most Sixties-era production-based race cars were built up from vehicles designed for street use, the Shelby GT350 was in reality a dialed-back version of the full-on race car Shelby and Ford actually had in mind, a race-ready Mustang prepared to dominate and win the SCCA National B-Production Championship. Because the SCCA allowed special factory options for either powertrain or suspension but not both, Shelby specified suspension, brakes, steering and other components to improve handling and stopping power. As a result, the 1965 Shelby GT350 surprised some buyers who complained about its harsh ride qualities. Changes were made to the 1966 model to soften the day-to-day driving experience, but the first 252 1966 cars were actually carried over 1965 models and retained the earlier lowered front A-arms and over-rider traction bars. This 1966 GT350, serial number SFM6S316, is one such car. Sold new by Arles Ford of San Rafael, California, to G.M. Freeman on March 19, 1966, it was restored by its third owner Mark Hereford and completed to full “R” racing specification.